East Africa Cybersecurity Clinic Launched

The World Bank Group (WBG), the National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U), the East African Community (EAC) and the Government of Israel have launched the “East Africa Cybersecurity Clinic,” a regional event in Uganda.

The clinic aims to support participating countries foster cybersecurity at the national and regional levels by identifying challenges and opportunities to move forward their cybersecurity agenda and develop a regional approach to solve cybersecurity challenges.

“The World Bank is pleased to co-organize this clinic. As Governments continue to focus on building their digital economies, attention to cybersecurity and an overall environment of trust should be front and center to these efforts,” says Boutheina Guermazi, Practice Manager of the World Bank’s Transport and Digital Development Global Practice.

“We are confident that this event will not only raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity, but also start laying the foundation for the design and development of cybersecurity frameworks and initiatives in the public sector, and help advance regional collaboration and synergies in the area.”

NITA-U’s Executive Director, James Saaka, says the clinic will allow Uganda to interact, learn and share experiences with the diverse global audience that will be in attendance. This is in line with the importance of cybersecurity to create an environment that allows for secure and safe digital transactions for Ugandan citizens.

The increasing global interconnectivity and growth of digital technologies have amplified exposure to cyber risks and threats, making cybersecurity an emergent public good. Governments are looking to protect their citizens, data, communications and critical infrastructure through national policies, laws, and strong institutions.

The cybersecurity clinic is part of a broader effort funded by the Ministry of Economy and Industry of Israel, focusing on cybersecurity capacity building In Africa. This joint initiative will enable African countries to experience cybersecurity best practices and be in contact with global expertise for building trusted digital environments.

The Minister of Economy and Industry of Israel, Hon. Eli (Eliyahu) Cohen, says Israel is happy and proud to give back and share its knowledge with other countries. Witnessing the digital development around the world we believe cybersecurity is an integral aspect of any digital activity to make sure countries will be protected from the risks which come with it.

Hon Cohen says Israel managed to build state-of-the-art cybersecurity infrastructure, generating nation-scale abilities, an atmosphere of cooperation between all stakeholders, and a favorable business environment for private sector involvement.

He says these best practices are available for any country which is seeking to build its own systems and we are here to support them in this process.

The clinic targets public officials responsible for cybersecurity policies in their jurisdictions, to help them expand their knowledge of cyber operations, technology, and policy.

Participants include government officials from East African Community members countries such as Burundi, Kenya and Rwanda, and representatives from other countries of the region like Djibouti, Ghana, Malawi, Nigeria, and Somalia. The clinic will also lay the foundation to support the regional integration of cybersecurity protection.

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